What to Eat When You Have a Runny Nose in Hanoi: A Foodie’s Guide

Hanoi Pho Ga street food stall
Hanoi Pho Ga street food stall

Remember that time you were so excited to explore Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, only to be stopped in your tracks by a pesky runny nose? It happens to the best of us! But don’t let a little sniffle dampen your culinary adventures. As the Vietnamese proverb goes, “Ăn được ngủ được là tiên”, which translates to “Being able to eat and sleep well is heavenly.” So, let’s dive into some comforting and delicious remedies that will have you saying “Khỏe như voi” (healthy as an elephant) in no time!

Hanoi’s Healing Bowls: Soups to Soothe the Soul

When that familiar tickle starts in your nose, a steaming bowl of soup can be your best friend. Here are a few Hanoi favorites:

Phở Gà: Chicken Soup for the Hanoi Soul

This iconic Vietnamese noodle soup is a must-try, runny nose or not! But when you’re feeling under the weather, the fragrant broth, tender chicken, and rice noodles offer a comforting and nourishing experience. Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan, a renowned Vietnamese nutritionist, recommends Phở Gà for its “immune-boosting properties, thanks to the ginger, garlic, and star anise in the broth.” Look for stalls near Hoan Kiem Lake or in the bustling streets of the French Quarter.

Hanoi Pho Ga street food stallHanoi Pho Ga street food stall

Bún Riêu Cua: A Symphony of Flavors to Chase Away the Sniffles

This tomato-based crab noodle soup is a flavor explosion that’s sure to clear your sinuses. The sweet and sour broth, combined with the delicate crab meat, tofu, and vermicelli noodles, creates a harmonious balance that’s both satisfying and restorative. You can find delicious Bún Riêu Cua at small eateries around West Lake or in the Ba Dinh district.

Beyond the Bowl: Other Hanoi Delights for a Runny Nose

Soup is just the beginning! Hanoi offers a plethora of dishes that can provide relief and tantalize your taste buds:

Gừng: Ginger, the Spicy Wonder

The Vietnamese swear by ginger’s healing properties, and for good reason! This pungent root is a natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory. Sip on a cup of trà gừng (ginger tea) or add a generous amount of grated ginger to your dishes. Many local restaurants in Hanoi, especially those serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine, offer ginger-infused dishes and drinks.

Cháo: Rice Porridge, Simple yet Powerful

This humble dish is a staple in Vietnamese households, especially when someone is feeling unwell. Plain rice porridge is gentle on the stomach and provides much-needed hydration. You can find cháo stalls throughout Hanoi, often serving it with various toppings like shredded chicken, pork, or preserved egg.

Hanoi ginger tea and rice porridgeHanoi ginger tea and rice porridge

TRAVELCAR: Your Ticket to Delicious Recovery

Navigating Hanoi’s bustling streets with a runny nose can be a challenge. That’s where TRAVELCAR comes in! We offer comfortable and reliable car rental services with experienced drivers who know the city like the back of their hand. Whether you need a ride to a cozy Phở Gà stall or a scenic drive around West Lake to clear your head, TRAVELCAR has you covered. We offer a range of vehicles, including 16-seater, 29-seater, and 45-seater buses, ensuring a comfortable journey for solo travelers and groups alike.

Hanoi: Where Flavor Meets Wellness

Remember, a runny nose doesn’t have to spell disaster for your Hanoi culinary adventure. Embrace the healing power of Vietnamese cuisine, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. After all, they’re the experts! And if you need a helping hand getting around, TRAVELCAR is just a phone call away. Contact us at 0372960696, email us at [email protected], or visit our office at 260 Cầu Giấy, Hanoi. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist you with all your transportation needs.

So, go ahead and savor all the flavors Hanoi has to offer. Chúc ngon miệng (Enjoy your meal) and have a speedy recovery!